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Is your toilet constantly running water? The most common reason for a consistently running toilet is a deteriorated or leaking flapper that needs to be replaced. A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day, or even more depending on the flow rate. If this is a problem you’re currently experiencing, get in touch with a professional plumbing service for toilet repair.
This is a rubber component that seals the flush valve opening to keep water in the tank. When you flush the toilet, a chain connected to the flush handle pulls up the flapper to allow water from the tank to rush into the bowl. Once enough water has been released, the flapper closes, creating a tight seal between the tank and the bowl.
Just like the other components of your toilet, the flapper can wear out due to age, and its ability to form a tight seal can deteriorate. A worn-out flapper will cause the toilet to constantly run because the seal is compromised. It can also lead to phantom flushes, a condition where the toilet seems to flush on its own, even when no one has used it. Thankfully, replacing a damaged toilet flapper is a DIY job that you can easily accomplish with a few simple tools. If you encounter any difficulties, contact a professional plumber for help.
In most cases, it’s easy to tell when a toilet flapper is leaking. You’ll hear the water continuously running in the toilet tank. However, there are cases where the leak is very slow and you may not hear it. In such cases, you’ll want to perform a dye test to be sure. Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank and check the bowl after 30 minutes. If the water in the bowl is colored, it means the flapper is leaking.
Turn off the water supply and flush the toilet to remove any water in the tank. Next, remove the tank lid. Simply lift it off and put it aside—be careful not to drop it or damage the tank.
Unhook the chain from the flush handle lever and gently lift the deteriorating flapper off the overflow tube. Some are screwed in place, so you may need a screwdriver to remove them. If yours is clipped on, you may need to use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the clips open.
With the old flapper out of place, install the new one over the overflow tube and clip or screw it into place. Attach the chain to the flush handle lever and adjust the length as needed.
Turn the water supply back on and flush the toilet. Observe the flapper to ensure it's sealing properly and the water level in the tank is correct.
These are the simple steps to follow to replace your toilet flapper and prevent water waste. If you need help, get in touch with a reputable plumbing repair service providing toilet repair services. The team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing is on standby to help you restore your toilet to good working condition.
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